Santi Cazorla has damaged the ligaments in a knee, which has added to the sense of worry over his fitness prospects, although Arsenal are still unclear as to the precise time-frame for his absence.
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Arsenal are also still assessing Alexis Sánchez, who injured a hamstring in the same game, with the initial indications being that he is likely to be out for three to four weeks.
The Chilean limped off in Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Norwich on Sunday afternoon.
It’s also possible that he will miss the upcoming Premier League games against Sunderland, Aston Villa, Manchester City, Southampton and Bournemouth over the course of this month.
After coming in for huge criticism after playing Alexis Sanchez, and seeing him get inured last weekend, manager Arsene Wenger could well decide to be cautious regarding Walcott.
Arsenal could be without Sanchez for their busy festive schedule which includes a top-of-the-table clash against Manchester City. The France defender had to be replaced by Gabriel after only 11 minutes of Sunday’s 1-1 draw at Norwich after suffering a hip problem.
The full extent of the attacker’s injury is expected to be learned today.
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However there is still a lengthy injury list at the Emirates as Wenger is without five other senior players. The midfielder’s injury means Arsenal is short in the centre of the park with injuries to Mikel Arteta, Jack Wilshere and Tomas Rosicky.
